Entada phaseoloides – Native Plant Search

Native Range

A native plant refers to a species of plant that has naturally evolved and grown in a particular geographic area without any human intervention or introduction. These plants have adapted to the local climate, soil, and ecological conditions over an extended period of time, often thousands of years. Because of this co-evolution with their specific environment, native plants have developed characteristics that make them well-suited to the local ecosystem and provide essential resources for local wildlife.

Native plants play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of an area. They provide food and habitat for native wildlife, support pollinators like bees and butterflies, and contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem. Additionally, native plants often require fewer resources like water and fertilizers compared to non-native or exotic plants that may not be well-suited to the local environment.

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Native Continent

Asia-Temperate, Asia-Tropical, Pacific, Australasia

Asia-Temperate

Guangdong Sheng, Guangxi Zhuangzu Zizhiqu, Taiwan, Xizang Zizhiqu, Yunnan Sheng,China

Asia-Tropical

Papua New Guinea, Vietnam (north), Indonesia, Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak, Philippines,

Pacific

United States, Hawaii, Micronesia, Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga, Vanuatu

Australasia

Australia, Queensland (northeast),

Natural Habitat

Edible Uses

All the following reports need to be treated with care since there is also a report that the plant is poisonous. The soaked and roasted seeds are eaten. Although poisonous raw, the seeds can be rendered edible by prolonged soaking and roasting. The seeds are edible cooked. They are eaten after roasting, baking, grinding, and immersing in running water for 10-12 hours. They contain two saponins. The leaves are eaten both raw and cooked. The dark brown seeds are 4 - 6cm in diameter. The roasted seeds have been used as a coffee substitute. An edible oil is obtained from the seed. Young leaves are eaten as vegetable. A sap exuding from the cut branches is used as a drink.